Simultaneous Estimation of Atazanavir & Ritonavir in API & Marketed Formulations by Using RP-HPLC

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Development and validation of RP-HPLC method for simultaneous estimation of Atazanavir and Ritonavir in their combined tablet dosage form. Atazanavir and Ritonavir are antiviral agents used in treatment of HIV. A simple, precise, rapid, accurate and cost-effective high- performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was successfully developed and validated for simultaneous estimation of Atazanavir and Ritonavir in their combined tablet dosage form. The selected mobile phase was Methanol: Phosphate Buffer in proportion 65:35 v/v respectively. The optimized columns used are C18 column, Symmetry and Zodiac column. X bridge C18 (4.6×150 mm, 5 µm) particle size was found to be ideal as it gave good peak shape and resolution at 1ml/min flow for Atazanavir and Ritonavir. In this study, the validation of Atazanavir and Ritonavir in API and marketed formulations were performed keeping in accordance with the parameters like system suitability, specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision (reproducibility & repeatability), robustness. The developed stability indicating method is capable for determination of impurities of Atazanavir and Ritonavir in combined tablet dosage form as well as individual dosage forms also. The method has been successfully validated according to ICH guidelines and the results obtained by using RP – HPLC are rapid, accurate and precise. The proposed methods were successfully applied for the analysis of synthetic mixtures and pharmaceutical formulations of Atazanavir and Ritonavir.

Beyond Basics: The Dichotomy of Actual and Perceived Consumer Needs

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Consumer behavior, particularly in distinguishing between actual and perceived needs, reveals complex dynamics that shape spending patterns. This study, titled “Beyond Basics: The Dichotomy of Actual and Perceived Consumer Needs,” examines how modern consumerism often blurs the lines between essential and discretionary expenditures. While actual needs—such as food, shelter, and clothing—are vital for survival, they often receive less financial attention compared to perceived needs, which are closely tied to social status, identity, and recognition. Using Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs as a theoretical framework, this research explores the psychological and social factors influencing this discrepancy. The study employs a quantitative approach, collecting data from a diverse sample of consumers across different socio-economic backgrounds. Through hypothesis testing, including t-tests and regression analysis, the research investigates the significant differences in spending on actual versus perceived needs and the impact of social status on these spending priorities. The findings indicate that consumers, on average, allocate significantly more financial resources to perceived needs, with social status serving as a stronger predictor of this behavior than income level. This trend is particularly evident among higher-income individuals, but it is pervasive across all income groups, reflecting the deep-rooted influence of societal norms and marketing strategies on consumer choices.

The study concludes by discussing the implications for marketers, policymakers, and consumer education. It suggests that promoting financial literacy, developing sustainable marketing strategies, and encouraging a shift towards prioritizing actual needs could lead to more balanced and sustainable consumer habits. By addressing the psychological and social drivers of consumption, it may be possible to mitigate the adverse effects of excessive spending on perceived needs and foster healthier, more sustainable consumption patterns.

A Comprehensive Review of Engineering Strategies for Environmental Sustainability in Sustainable Waste Management

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Waste management and environmental sustainability are intricately linked aspects crucial for maintaining ecological balance and human well-being. This study synthesizes research findings and scholarly insights to underscore the significance of effective waste management practices in achieving environmental sustainability goals.  It examines waste treatment approaches, including recycling, waste-to-energy systems, and waste reduction strategies, highlighting their role in mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the study explores the environmental consequences of inadequate waste management, emphasizing the urgent need for holistic solutions to address water, soil, and air pollution. Engineering solutions for sustainable waste management, such as the 3R principle (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle), thermal treatment methods, and landfill management, are discussed as essential components of a comprehensive strategy. By integrating these approaches, policymakers, industries, and communities can minimize waste generation, conserve resources, and safeguard the environment for current and future generations. Challenges like regulatory barriers, lack of awareness, and inadequate infrastructure pose obstacles to sustainable waste management practices. Thus, a collaborative effort involving governments, businesses, and civil society is crucial to implementing effective waste management policies and initiatives. Through concerted action, we can transition to a circular economy model that promotes resource efficiency, environmental protection, and human well-being on a global scale.

Design and Development of Overcurrent Protection Relay Inverse Definite Minimum Time Type Based on Arduino Uno

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An overcurrent protection relay is an essential component in electrical system to protect devices from damage due to excessive current. The Inverse Definite Minimum Time (IDMT) type has a trip time that depends on the magnitude of the overcurrent, with faster trip times for higher overcurrent levels. Arduino Uno can be used as a microcontroller platform to build an IDMT with relatively low cost and ease of implementation. This research aims to design and construct an Arduino Uno-based IDMT. The system consists of a current sensor, Arduino Uno, and a relay. The current sensor is used to detect the current flowing through the load. The Arduino Uno processes the data from the current sensor and determines if the current exceeds a predefined limit. If the current exceeds the limit, the Arduino Uno will activate the relay to cut off the current flow to the load. The IDMT trip time is implemented using an algorithm that considers the magnitude of the overcurrent and the minimum trip time. The system is tested using a simulator and actual load. Test results show that the Arduino Uno-based IDMT system works well and can protect the load from damage due to overcurrent.

An Analysis Management by Mike 21 Modelling at Rolak 70 Retention Pool in Jombang Regency, East Java Province, Indonesia

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Some areas in Indonesia have high level of sedimentation problems that able to cause flooding, and one apparent solution is to build a retention pool. Sedimentation is deposition of material into the reservoir or dam due to environmental damage or erosion occurs in the river basin area. Sedimentation becomes the main factor in constructing the Rolak 70 Retention Pool, as an important component in controlling floods on the Konto River when the water discharge exceeds the maximum limit. From geography perspective, the modelling location is in waters located between 112° 11′ 22.85″ South Latitude and 7° 38′ 42.23″ East Longitude. The model area has northern boundary at the tip of Rolak 70 pool, while western boundary at the outlet of Rolak 70 pool. The lowest water depth value is located in upstream area of Konto River at coordinates of 112°11’27.81″ South Latitude and 7°38’49.27″ East longitude.

Weight of soil sample taken from the research site was ± 1000 grams at each point, and the result of sediment sample test performed at the Soil Mechanics Laboratory of Civil Engineering Department, Sultan Agung University, Semarang showed that the research area is dominated by sand, followed by mud and gravel. There were several tests conducted include grain size analysis, hydrometer analysis, and specific gravity analysis to determine the D50 of the sediment. In the study area, several sampling points were taken, started from upstream area of the river in front of Rolak 70 building to the Rolak 70 Retention Pool. For this purpose, a MIKE 21 software modelling was used to determine distribution and lines of sedimentation in the study area. As visible from changes found in bed level morphology that occurred in Rolak 70 Retention Pool by cross section extraction, it can be seen that the largest change occurred in analysis for line 1 and the smallest bed level changes occurred in the analysis for line 6. Then, the result revealed that sedimentation tends to occur at large locations in upstream area of Rolak 70 Retention Pool, while the smallest sedimentation potential will happen at the downstream area of Rolak 70 Retention Pool. These results can be caused by changes of speed from the river flow which tends to decrease towards the end of Rolak 70 Retention Pool. So, the river flow has no more energy to carry heavy amount of sediments originating from the upstream area of the Konto River. By the existence of this retention pool, the need for rice field irrigation will not be disturbed by sediment deposits. In addition, the Rolak 70 Retention Pool can be used as temporary storage for material from Mount Kelud eruption where these materials can be utilized as building material or other useful purposes.